Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and RJ Barrett formed a deadly one-two punch as Canada frustrated Luka Doncic and Slovenia, 100-89, to advance to its very first semifinals appearance in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, Sept.6.

Gilgeous-Alexander exploded for 31 points while Barrett chipped in 24 as the two connived in a furious second half rally where the Canadians created the much-needed separation from what was initially thought to be a grind-out affair.

Gilgeous-Alexander also added 10 rebounds while Barrett collared nine for Canada which opened the third frame with a 17-5 rally that broke a 50-all deadlock at the break.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dillon Brooks, before getting thrown out, finished with 14 apiece.

The two also took advantage of the foul situation of the Slovenians as the Canadians lived from the foul line with 26 free throws as compared to Slovenia’s 17. 

It was also the fouls that also frustrated Doncic who got thrown out with still 6:37 left in the game after receiving his second technical foul for continuous complaining.

Doncic's ejection also got the 11,710 in attendance going and also went on criticizing the referees with "ref you s*ck" chants.

Despite trailing by as many as 17 points, 94-77, in the final five minutes of the game, Slovenia still threatened to come back with an 8-0 spurt that cut the lead down to just nine, 94-85. 

An and-1 play from Gilgeous-Alexander, however, doused the run as Canada arranged a semis showdown against Serbia.

Doncic still led the way for Slovenia with 26 points while Klemen Prepelic added 22 in a losing effort.